The former Florida governor said there was “no question” Mallea was the best option to lead the GOP in HD116.

"Jose has an inspiring personal story of working hard to achieve success in both business and public service, and now wants to ensure that same American dream is attainable for everyone, not just a select few,” said Bush in his endorsement. “I know that Jose will effectively put his conservative principles and leadership skills to work in Tallahassee for the community he loves and for our great state."

Mallea said he was “honored” to have Bush hop on in the radio ad, but added the work was far from over as the days wind down until the special primary.

“I plan to keep working hard in the home stretch of this primary to make sure District 116 has a representative in Tallahassee who will work hard for conservative policies that will improve education and increase opportunity for everyone,” Mallea said.

Bush isn’t the only big name in Florida politics to wade into the Republican primary.

In the photo, Mallea stands side-by-side with Rubio and Lieutenant Gov. Carlos Lopez-Cantera.

The men smile in the shot, which is juxtaposed with a blurb explaining a little bit about Mallea’s political insider past.

“Jose Mallea has dedicated his life to championing the conservative values we hold dear,” the mailer reads. “He served as an aide to President George W. Bush in the White House, Senior Advisor to Gov. Jeb Bush and Campaign Manager for Senator Marco Rubio in 2010.”

Rubio, however, was less than thrilled over the use of his photo in the mailer since it implied he may have taken sides in the race.

"Sen. Rubio did not see the mailer before it was sent, and he was never asked to approve the use of his name and picture,'' said Olivia Perez-Cubas, Rubio spokesperson, to the Miami Herald.

The special election will be held next Tuesday, July 25. The winner of the special election primary will face off against Democrat Gabriele Mayaudon in a general election Sept. 26.